#Japan #Tokyo #DLE #SANKYO #HMM

The Launch of the SDH Project: A New Era in Webtoons

In an exciting announcement made on September 19, 2023, DLE Co., Ltd. has teamed up with SANKYO Co., Ltd. and Happinet Media Marketing (HMM) to launch the original webtoon project, titled the SDH Project. This initiative marks a significant step in the evolution of webtoons as a mainstream entertainment format, with two captivating series, 'AINIMAL' and 'Reborn Slave', set to begin distribution on September 19 and September 25, respectively.

Understanding the Webtoon Phenomenon

Webtoons are a unique digital comic format designed primarily for smartphones, characterized by their vertical scroll design and vibrant full-color artwork. They have witnessed a meteoric rise in popularity across the globe, with projections indicating the webtoon market will balloon from 530 billion yen in 2021 to an astounding 3.85 trillion yen by 2028. This surge is attributable to successful adaptations of various webtoon titles into live-action dramas, capturing the hearts of international audiences.

The SDH Project aims to leverage this growing interest by collaborating with SANKYO, renowned for manufacturing pachinko and slot machines, and HMM, a company specializing in the production and distribution of visual content. Their partnership is focused on not only creating engaging original stories but also exploring potential secondary developments of intellectual property (IP) that can transfer to gaming and screen adaptations, ultimately nurturing IPs that can be embraced globally.

Highlights of the SDH Project

DLE, celebrated for original IPs like the 'Secret Society Taka no Tsume', brings years of expertise in developing content that resonates with a global audience. HMM, known for its successful adaptations and production ventures, rounds out this formidable trio alongside SANKYO, a leader in the entertainment-driven gaming sector. By uniting their strengths, these companies aim to create versatile IPs that extend beyond traditional media to encompass a broader spectrum of entertainment.

The Webtoons: 'AINIMAL' and 'Reborn Slave'

AINIMAL

'AINIMAL' is a remarkable blend of sci-fi and monster battles centered around Kaito, a young individual navigating life in a dystopian setting with his AI companion, Chili Pepper. After the tragedy of losing his parents in a fire, Kaito’s grandfather is in dire need of surgery, leading him to enter the challenging world of AINIMAL battles. It's a journey of resilience, friendship, and uncovering hidden powers set against a backdrop of entertaining action and emotional depth. The story encourages audiences to connect with the characters on a personal level, emphasizing themes of ambition and empathy.

Release Platform: This series will debut exclusively on LINE Manga and ebookjapan on September 19, with the first twelve episodes available, featuring a complimentary four-part introduction.

Reborn Slave

'Reborn Slave' offers a captivating tale of Reo Takeda, a downtrodden employee whose spirit is reborn into the legendary Spartan hero Leonidas. The narrative navigates through the brutal world of Spartan society juxtaposed with the corporate tyranny of modern Japan. This character’s journey from a struggling worker to a formidable leader challenges stigmas against the weak, showcasing themes of courage and identity.

Release Platform: 'Reborn Slave' is set for an exclusive release on LINE Manga and ebookjapan starting September 25, with the initial seventeen episodes ready for readers, including a free taste of the first seven episodes.

Future Prospects and Development

The global market for webtoons is expanding rapidly, and DLE has previously produced multiple webtoons that aim for international reach. The SDH Project aspires to further this trajectory by developing programs that connect television content with popular creators globally. There are plans to engage in cross-media collaborations and create immersive experiences that transcend beyond conventional storytelling.

DLE’s ongoing commitment to innovation is evident, as they prepare for a future where AI integration with existing IPs and even the creation of AI-powered Vtubers becomes a reality. This potential demonstrates their dedication to merging technology with storytelling, paving the way for the next wave of entertainment.

Conclusion

In summary, the SDH Project signifies a transformative moment in media, blending creativity with cutting-edge technology. As DLE, SANKYO, and HMM embark on this venture, audiences can look forward to unique narratives that push the boundaries of traditional comics and embrace the future of global storytelling. Make sure to catch the premieres on their respective platforms and join this exhilarating journey into original webtoons!